Nonuniform weakness in the paretic knee and compensatory strength gains in the nonparetic knee occurs after stroke.
BACKGROUND
This study was designed to quantify torque production at different joint angles in the paretic and nonparetic knee joints of individuals with stroke.


METHODS
Extension and flexion torques were measured at 6 angles of the knee joint and normalized to peak torque in 19 subjects with stroke and 19 controls.


RESULTS
Paretic knee extension torque was lower than controls when the knee was positioned near extension. In contrast, nonparetic knee extension and flexion torques were higher than controls when the knee was positioned near full flexion.


CONCLUSIONS
The paretic knee extensors demonstrated exaggerated weakness at short muscle lengths and the nonparetic knee extensors and flexors demonstrated selective strength gains. Clinicians should therefore consider paretic knee extensor strengthening near full extension and promote symmetrical use of the legs to prevent compensatory overuse of the nonparetic leg.
Lomaglio
Melanie J
MJ
The University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences, St. Augustine, FL, USA.
Eng
Janice J
JJ
D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D000368:Aged; D053587:Arthrometry, Articular; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000503:physiopathology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018908:Muscle Weakness / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D010291:Paresis / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D020521:Stroke / Q000150:complications*; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation; D019415:Torque